For many regional airports, earning FAA Part 139 certification is the gateway to hosting larger commercial air service and attracting new economic opportunities. But the transition from a smaller, nonhub operation to a fully certified Part 139 airport comes with operational changes, rigorous inspections, and new maintenance expectations. Understanding the process—and preparing early—can make the jump far smoother.
Regional airports typically serve smaller aircraft—think turboprops and regional jets—with fewer passengers per flight and lower annual enplanements. FAA Part 139 certification opens the door to scheduled commercial service with larger aircraft (more than 30 passenger seats) and a higher volume of passengers.
Why make the leap? Certification can:
- Expand airline partnerships and route opportunities
- Boost local economic development
- Increase the airport’s competitive position in attracting carriers
Of course, the trade-off is greater oversight and higher operational standards—particularly when it comes to safety, inspections, and airfield maintenance.
The FAA Part 139 Application Process
Becoming a FAA Part 139 airport starts with submitting an application to the FAA. From there, the process involves:
– Review of Airport Layout & Operations – FAA evaluates infrastructure, safety areas, and airfield configuration.
– Development of the Airport Certification Manual (ACM) – Outlines procedures for everything from aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) to wildlife hazard management.
– Initial Inspection – FAA inspectors conduct a comprehensive assessment before issuing the certificate.
What’s in a Part 139 Inspection?
Once certified, airports undergo annual inspections that cover:
- ARFF Readiness – Proper staffing, training, and equipment for firefighting.
- Wildlife Hazard Management – Programs and deterrents to minimize wildlife strikes.
- Pavement Conditions – Runways, taxiways, and aprons must be safe, well-maintained, and properly marked.
- Lighting & Signage – All guidance systems must meet FAA standards.
- Friction & Surface Contaminant Removal – Regular monitoring and corrective action when surfaces fall below friction thresholds.
For airports making the jump, these inspections often highlight the need for additional equipment and more formalized maintenance programs.
Key Equipment for a Smooth Transition
While larger airports may already have fleets of specialized equipment, a regional airport stepping into FAA Part 139 certification may need to expand or adapt its capabilities. Useful assets include:
- Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) Vehicles
- Snow Removal Equipment – Snow brooms, plows, and deicing units
- Runway Condition Monitoring Tools – Continuous friction measuring equipment (CFME)
- Rubber Removal Equipment – For maintaining runway friction standards
How Avion Helps Budding Part 139 Airports Meet Friction Standards
Friction compliance is a key part of every FAA Part 139 inspection, but purchasing new equipment—like high-cost water blasting trucks—can strain a smaller airport’s budget. Avion offers a smarter alternative.
With Avion’s approach, airports can:
- Use existing spray rigs, water trucks, and snow brooms to perform rubber removal
- Train their own personnel for in-house operations
- Schedule cleaning on their own timeline, avoiding the cost and delay of outsourcing every job
This means a transitioning airport can meet FAA friction requirements without a major capital investment, all while maintaining control over their maintenance schedule.